MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS ,an autoimmune disease.pdf

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, leading to inflammation and damage. This disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Types of MS:

1. Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) – The most common form, characterized by flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of recovery (remission).


2. Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS) – Develops from RRMS, leading to gradual worsening of symptoms with fewer relapses.


3. Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) – A less common form where symptoms steadily worsen without clear relapses.


4. Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS) – A rare type with continuous worsening and occasional relapses.



Common Symptoms:

Fatigue

Numbness or tingling

Muscle weakness

Vision problems (blurred or double vision)

Difficulty with balance and coordination

Cognitive issues (memory, concentration problems)

Bladder and bowel dysfunction


Causes & Risk Factors:

The exact cause is unknown, but factors may include:

Genetics

Environmental triggers (e.g., low vitamin D, viral infections)

Immune system dysfunction


Treatment & Management:

There is no cure, but treatments help manage symptoms and slow progression:

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs): Medications like interferon beta, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab

Symptom Management: Physical therapy, muscle relaxants, and pain management

Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress reduction.

1. Gomathy.N
III BSc.MICROBIOLOGY
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

2. DEFINITION
Multiple sclerosis is a demyelinating disease that
damages the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain
and spinal cord. This disrupts communication in the
nervous system and causes a variety of physical, mental,
and sometimes psychiatric symptoms. The exact cause is
unknown but it is considered an autoimmune disease
where the immune system attacks the myelin sheath.

4. WHEN DOES MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS START?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) can begin at various ages, though it most
commonly starts between the ages of 20 and 40. However, it can
occur earlier or later in life, with some cases diagnosed in
childhood or in individuals over 50.
The onset of MS is influenced by a combination of genetic
factors and environmental triggers, which together contribute to
the development of this complex neurological condition.
Early signs might include symptoms such as fatigue, numbness,
tingling, or blurred vision.

9. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS TREATMENT
There is no cure for MS, but several treatments can
improve how you feel and keep your body working well.
Drugs that may slow your MS or help nerve damage
include:
Alemtuzumab (Lemtrada)
Beta interferon (Avonex, Betaseron, and Rebif)
Cladribine (Mavenclad)
Dalfampridine (Ampyra)
Dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera)

10. Multiple Sclerosis Prevention
MS can not be entirely prevented. It’s caused by a variety
of known and unknown factors, many of which are out of
your control. But there are ways to reduce your risk.
Lifestyle habits such as getting adequate vitamin D,
maintaining a healthy weight, living in a sunny climate,
spending time outside, reducing stress, and not smoking
may help prevent MS.

11. ThankThankThank
you!
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you!